Top 50 Tenant Questions on Maintenance & Repairs in Prince Edward Island
Who is responsible for repairs in my rental unit?
Landlords are legally responsible for keeping rental units in a good state of repair and meeting health, safety, and housing standards.
How do I request a repair from my landlord?
Notify your landlord in writing about the needed repair. Keep a copy for your records.
What can I do if my landlord ignores my repair request?
You can apply to the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) for an order to require repairs. Use Form 2 - Application by Tenant. IRAC Forms
What is the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC)?
IRAC is the tribunal that handles residential tenancy disputes in PEI. Visit IRAC
Which law covers landlord and tenant repair responsibilities in PEI?
The Residential Tenancy Act (PEI) and the corresponding Residential Tenancy Act Regulations.
Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't done?
No, you must keep paying rent. Withholding rent can lead to eviction.
Can I pay for repairs myself and deduct from rent?
Only if you get IRAC's approval or your landlord agrees in writing.
How quickly must a landlord make urgent repairs?
Urgent repairs (like heat, electricity, water) must be done as soon as possible.
What if repairs are needed due to tenant damage?
Tenants are responsible for repairing any damage they or their guests cause.
What is considered an emergency repair?
Repairs needed for vital services like heat, plumbing, electricity, or that pose immediate health or safety risks.
Can a landlord enter my unit to make repairs?
Yes, but they must give at least 24 hours written notice and enter between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., except in emergencies.
How do I file a maintenance complaint with IRAC?
Fill out Form 2 - Application by Tenant and submit it to IRAC. Download Form 2
What if my landlord makes repeated repair visits without notice?
This is not allowed unless it's an emergency. You may file a complaint with IRAC.
Can my landlord increase my rent because I asked for repairs?
No, your landlord cannot retaliate by raising rent due to repair requests.
Does my landlord have to maintain appliances?
Yes, if appliances are provided in your lease, the landlord must keep them in working order.
What should I do if mold appears in my unit?
Notify your landlord in writing and request repairs to fix the problem and remove mold.
Who is responsible for pest control?
The landlord, unless pests are caused by tenant neglect.
Do I have to move out during major repairs?
Only if ordered by IRAC or required for safety. You may be entitled to compensation or reduced rent.
Is my landlord responsible for snow removal?
Yes, unless your lease says the tenant must do it. Check your rental agreement.
Can I call a repair professional directly if my landlord won't act?
For urgent health or safety risks, you should contact your landlord first, then apply to IRAC if unresolved.
Can the landlord refuse minor repairs?
The landlord must repair anything that affects health, safety, or habitability, but not cosmetic issues.
How long does IRAC take to decide a maintenance dispute?
Timelines vary but IRAC aims to resolve disputes as quickly as possible after receiving all information.
Does IRAC charge a fee for filing maintenance applications?
No, there is no application fee for tenants filing with IRAC.
If my unit is unlivable, can I end my lease early?
You can apply to IRAC for permission to end your tenancy early due to uninhabitable conditions.
What documentation should I keep when dealing with repairs?
Keep all repair requests, correspondence, photos, and receipts related to the issue.
Can IRAC order the landlord to refund rent?
Yes, if IRAC finds the landlord failed to provide a habitable unit, they may order compensation.
Who must repair damage from storms or floods?
Landlords repair the unit unless damage is due to tenant actions or negligence.
Are landlords responsible for common area repairs?
Yes, landlords must maintain common areas like halls and stairways.
My heat is broken. What can I do?
Immediately inform your landlord in writing. For urgent issues, apply to IRAC if not fixed quickly.
Can IRAC inspect my apartment?
Yes, IRAC may inspect the property as part of an application process.
What if the landlord makes unauthorized repairs?
Landlords must give notice except in emergencies. Report any concerns to IRAC if your rights are affected.
Do I have to prepare the unit for repairs?
Yes, you must allow reasonable access and follow any agreed instructions for repair access.
Can a landlord evict me for requesting repairs?
No. Requesting repairs is your legal right. Retaliatory eviction is not permitted.
What if multiple tenants need repairs in the same building?
Each tenant can file individually or as a group with IRAC for an order.
How are disputes about repair responsibility resolved?
IRAC reviews facts and decides based on law and lease terms.
Are there housing standards my landlord must meet?
Yes, landlords must meet all health, safety, and housing bylaws.
Can I get emergency repairs reimbursed?
Only if you get your landlord's agreement or an IRAC order beforehand, except in real emergencies where it was impossible to contact your landlord.
Should I call IRAC before submitting a complaint?
You can call IRAC for information, but formal complaints must be submitted in writing.
Can I recover personal property damaged by poor maintenance?
You must file a claim. IRAC will decide if compensation is appropriate.
Do I have to pay for lightbulbs or batteries?
Tenants are normally responsible for lightbulbs and batteries, unless stated differently in your lease.
When does the landlord have to replace carpeting?
Only if carpeting is unsafe or affects health/habitability. Otherwise, it's at the landlord's discretion.
If my landlord lives in the same building, do the same rules apply?
Yes, repair obligations apply regardless of whether the landlord lives on-site.
Am I responsible for yard maintenance?
Only if your lease states this. Otherwise, the landlord is responsible.
What if my landlord doesn't repair broken locks?
Broken locks must be repaired promptly. Apply to IRAC for urgent repairs if necessary.
Where can I read the PEI Residential Tenancy Act?
You can read it at PEI Government Legislation.
Are rental units inspected after a tenant moves out?
Yes, a move-out inspection is recommended. Use Form 7 - Condition Report (Form 7).
What form do I use to request repairs through IRAC?
Use Form 2 - Application by Tenant, available at IRAC Rental Forms.
Can a landlord enter without notice for repairs?
Only in emergencies. Otherwise, 24 hours’ written notice is required.
Can tenants fix small things, like unclogging drains?
Minor maintenance is often the tenant’s responsibility if it’s from typical use. Report bigger issues to your landlord.
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